- Diversity of Microorganisms

Catalog description

This course examines the remarkable cellular, environmental, physiological, and metabolic diversity of prokaryotic and eukaryotic microorganisms. More specifically, diversity will be studied in terms of taxonomy and phylogeny, the ability of species to live in various environments, and the application of genomics. Emphasis will be placed on reading primary literature and using that information to make connections with course material. The structure of the course includes traditional lectures, in-class activities and a lab with self-designed experiments. Diversity of Microorganisms qualifies as a "biological diversity" course for the major and minor. Students may either take General Microbiology ( BIOL 315 ) or Diversity of Microorganisms ( BIOL 317 ) during their academic career, but not both courses.